Are you a knifemaker looking to find the perfect steel for your next project? Look no further than the knife steel chart. This comprehensive guide features 10 of the most common blade steels, including CPMS110V, CPMS90V, CPM M4, CPMS35V, CPM154, CPM3V, 1095, AUS-8A, VG10, and D2. With this chart, knifemakers of all experience levels can easily find the steel that’s the perfect match to their needs.
In addition to the 10 most common blade steels, the knife steel chart also includes a reference table showing the most popular types of knife steel and their composition of the various elements. This extension of the Guide to the Best Knife Steel provides a wealth of information for those looking to understand the differences between various types of steel. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this chart is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to create high-quality knives.
Understanding Knife Steel Chart
When it comes to choosing the right knife for your needs, one of the most important factors to consider is the type of steel used to make the blade. A knife steel chart can be a useful tool to help you compare and contrast the different types of steel available and determine which one is best suited for your purposes.
A knife steel chart typically lists the various types of steel used in knife blades and provides information on their composition, hardness, toughness, corrosion resistance, and other properties. Some charts may also include ratings or rankings based on factors like edge retention and sharpenability.
When using a knife steel chart, it’s important to keep in mind that no one type of steel is objectively “better” than another. The best steel for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a blade with excellent edge retention, you may want to choose a steel with a high carbon content. On the other hand, if you need a blade that is highly resistant to corrosion, you may want to choose a stainless steel.
In addition to considering the properties of different types of steel, it’s also important to think about how the steel will be used. For example, if you’re looking for a knife for heavy-duty tasks like chopping wood or breaking down game, you may want to choose a steel that is highly durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a knife for more delicate tasks like filleting fish, you may want to choose a steel that is more flexible and easier to sharpen.
Types of Knife Steel
When it comes to choosing the right knife for your needs, understanding the different types of knife steel is essential. Knife steel is a blend of various materials that determine the strength, durability, and sharpness of the blade. In this section, we will discuss the most common types of knife steel: Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Tool Steel, and High-Speed Steel.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is a popular choice for knife blades because it is easy to sharpen and holds a sharp edge well. It is also less expensive than other types of steel. However, carbon steel is more prone to rust and corrosion, so it requires more maintenance than other types of steel. Some popular types of carbon steel used in knife blades include 1095, 1084, and 1070.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice for knife blades because it is resistant to rust and corrosion. It is also easy to maintain and does not require as much upkeep as carbon steel. However, stainless steel is generally more expensive than carbon steel and can be more difficult to sharpen. Some common types of stainless steel used in knife blades include 440C, 154CM, and VG-10.
Tool Steel
Tool steel is a high-carbon steel that is specifically designed for use in tools and machinery. It is incredibly durable and can withstand high temperatures and heavy use. Tool steel is also popular for knife blades because it is tough and holds a sharp edge well. Some popular types of tool steel used in knife blades include D2, A2, and O1.
High-Speed Steel
High-speed steel is a type of tool steel that is designed to withstand high temperatures and heavy use. It is incredibly durable and can hold a sharp edge well, making it a popular choice for knife blades. However, high-speed steel is generally more expensive than other types of steel and can be more difficult to sharpen. Some popular types of high-speed steel used in knife blades include M2 and M4.
Knife Steel Grades and Their Meanings
When it comes to selecting a knife, the steel grade is an important factor to consider. Steel grade determines the hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance of the blade. Here are some common knife steel grades and their meanings:
- 420 Stainless Steel: This is a low-cost steel that offers good corrosion resistance. It is commonly used in knife blades and is easy to sharpen. However, it does not hold an edge for as long as other steel grades.
- 440 Stainless Steel: This steel offers good corrosion resistance and is easy to sharpen. It has a higher carbon content than 420 stainless steel, which gives it better edge retention. However, it is not as tough as other steel grades.
- AUS-8 Stainless Steel: This is a popular steel for knife blades because it is easy to sharpen and has good corrosion resistance. It has a higher carbon content than 440 stainless steel, which gives it better edge retention. It is also tougher than 440 stainless steel.
- VG-10 Stainless Steel: This is a high-quality steel that is commonly used in high-end knives. It has excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention. It is also tough and easy to sharpen. However, it is more expensive than other steel grades.
- S30V Stainless Steel: This is a premium steel that is often used in high-end knives. It has excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. It is also easy to sharpen. However, it is more expensive than other steel grades.
- D2 Tool Steel: This is a high-carbon, high-chromium steel that is often used in knife blades. It has excellent edge retention and is very tough. However, it is more difficult to sharpen than other steel grades and is prone to corrosion if not properly cared for.
Factors Affecting Knife Steel Performance
When choosing a steel for your knife, there are several factors to consider that will affect its performance. These factors include hardness, toughness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Understanding these factors will help you choose the best steel for your specific needs.
Hardness
Hardness is the ability of a steel to resist deformation or indentation. A harder steel will hold an edge better but may be more difficult to sharpen. The Rockwell hardness scale is commonly used to measure hardness in knife steels. A higher number on the scale indicates a harder steel. However, it is important to note that a steel that is too hard may be brittle and prone to chipping or breaking.
Toughness
Toughness is the ability of a steel to resist breaking or cracking under stress. A tough steel will be less prone to chipping or breaking, but may not hold an edge as well as a harder steel. Toughness is especially important for knives that will be used for heavy-duty tasks such as chopping or batoning.
Wear Resistance
Wear resistance is the ability of a steel to resist abrasion and wear. A steel with good wear resistance will hold an edge longer and require less frequent sharpening. However, a steel that is too wear-resistant may be difficult to sharpen and may not perform well for tasks that require a very sharp edge.
Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion resistance is the ability of a steel to resist rust and other forms of corrosion. Stainless steel is the most common type of steel used for knives that require good corrosion resistance. However, some high-carbon steels can also be treated to improve their corrosion resistance.
Popular Knife Steel Brands
When it comes to choosing a knife, the type of steel used in the blade is an important consideration. There are many different types of steel used in knife blades, each with its own unique properties. Here are some of the most popular knife steel brands:
Damascus Steel
Damascus steel is a type of steel that is made by layering two or more different types of steel together. This creates a unique pattern on the blade that is both beautiful and functional. Damascus steel is known for its strength, durability, and ability to hold a sharp edge.
VG-10 Steel
VG-10 steel is a high-quality Japanese steel that is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge. It is made with a combination of carbon, chromium, cobalt, and other elements. VG-10 steel is also resistant to corrosion and rust, making it a popular choice for knives that will be used in wet or humid environments.
154CM Steel
154CM steel is a high-quality American steel that is known for its toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge. It is made with a combination of carbon, chromium, and molybdenum. 154CM steel is also resistant to corrosion and rust, making it a popular choice for knives that will be used in wet or humid environments.
S30V Steel
S30V steel is a high-quality American steel that is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge and its resistance to corrosion and rust. It is made with a combination of carbon, chromium, and vanadium. S30V steel is also known for its toughness, making it a popular choice for knives that will be used in demanding environments.
How to Choose the Right Knife Steel
When it comes to choosing the right knife steel, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Purpose
The first thing to consider when choosing a knife steel is what you will be using it for. Are you looking for a knife for everyday carry, hunting, or survival? Different steels have different properties that make them better suited for different purposes.
2. Hardness
The hardness of a knife steel is measured on the Rockwell scale (HRC). A higher HRC number means the steel is harder and can hold a sharper edge, but it may also be more brittle and difficult to sharpen.
3. Corrosion Resistance
If you will be using your knife in wet or humid environments, corrosion resistance should be a top priority. Stainless steel is generally more corrosion-resistant than carbon steel, but there are also high-carbon stainless steels available that offer the best of both worlds.
4. Edge Retention
Edge retention refers to how long a knife can hold its sharp edge. If you use your knife frequently and don’t want to sharpen it often, look for a steel with good edge retention.
5. Price
Knife steel can vary greatly in price, from budget-friendly options to premium steels that can be quite expensive. Consider your budget when choosing a steel, but also keep in mind that a higher-priced steel may be worth the investment if it offers better performance and durability.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right knife steel for your needs and ensure that your knife performs well and lasts a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best grade of steel for knife making?
The best grade of steel for knife making is subjective and depends on what you are looking for in a knife. Some popular choices include high carbon steel, stainless steel, and tool steel. Each type of steel has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider what you need in a knife before choosing a steel grade.
What knife steel gets the sharpest?
The steel that gets the sharpest edge is typically a high carbon steel. However, high carbon steel is also more prone to rust and corrosion than stainless steel. It’s important to consider the trade-offs before choosing a steel grade for your knife.
How good is D2 steel for knives?
D2 steel is a popular choice for knife making because it has excellent edge retention and is resistant to corrosion. However, it can be difficult to sharpen and is not as tough as some other types of steel.
Is S35VN better than S30V?
S35VN is an improvement over S30V, with better toughness and resistance to chipping. However, it can be more difficult to sharpen than S30V.
What are the advantages of high carbon steel knives?
High carbon steel knives are known for their sharpness and edge retention. They are also typically easier to sharpen than stainless steel knives. However, they are more prone to rust and corrosion and require more maintenance.
What are the benefits of using CPM S110V steel in knives?
CPM S110V steel is known for its excellent edge retention and resistance to wear and corrosion. It is a popular choice for high-end knives, but it can be difficult to sharpen and is not as tough as some other types of steel.
